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Quantum dot-based diagnostics
Quantum dots can be used in many different ways for bio-medical diagnosis. The superior stability of quantum dots over organic dyes under ultraviolet irradiation led to their use as a flourescent stain in vitro and in vivo.
We have been using quantum dots to stain animal and plant tissues, either to label parts of the tissue or to study their ability to penetrate different parts of a plant.
We have been using this method to stain animal and plant tissues, either to label certain parts of the tissue or to study the quantum dots’ ability to penetrate into different parts of a plant.
Applications include:
Diagnosis
We have used quantum dots in the form of a microcomposite such as polymer or silica microspheres and tagged them to biomolecules, such as a protein molecule, after modifying their surface. This method can be used for multiplex analysis using different coloured quantum dots. These microspheres can easily be detected and separated under the optical microscope, whereas the small individual quantum dots cannot.
Uptake by plants
Quantum dots are very tiny particles and they may be transported inside plant tissue. This, however is not a straight-forward process and quantum dots may coagulate outside or inside cells, stopping further transportation. Our experiments have shown that transportation is limited but bacteria may play a role.
Uptake by insects and worms
These creatures may feed on leaves and other kinds of food that are contaminated with nanoparticles. Our experiments show that nematodes can survive after eating quantum dots.